Gravel Tuscany
with BWR

Gravel Tuscany with BWR

Ride the legendary strade bianche and the best parts of the mythical Eroica ride

Famous for it’s hilltop towns, Chianti wine, cypress trees, great food and Italian style, Tuscany is also home to the strade bianche and some of the best gravel and Beyond Tarmac rides in Europe.

 

Overview

Details

Next Departure

May 5th 2024

From

USD $3,895

Duration

7 days / 6 nights

Non-Rider Friendly

No

Rental Bike

From USD $550

Ride Program

Total Distance

Total Elevation

Daily Av. Distance

Daily Av. Elevation

Overview

 

Tuscany with it’s legendary strade bianche  is the perfect destination for a Thomson gravel trip. Starting just outside Siena, you’ll ride through the best of Tuscany following many of the white gravel routes made famous by the Eroica and the annual Strade Bianche professional race. Discover the medieval towns of Montereggioni and San Gimignano. Ride through the classic Chianti and Vernaccia vineyards and the Crete Senesi with its quintessential Tuscan landscapes of rolling hills and lines of cypress trees leading to hilltop farms.

Join us in this gravel paradise for an unforgettable experience and some of the best Beyond Tarmac riding Europe has to offer!

Video

Get a glimpse of what to expect in our short film following the Thomson ride leaders on our reconnaissance trip through Tuscany

Trip Technical Difficulty

1
2
3
Not only for gravel newbies but also experienced riders that don’t enjoy very technical terrain. Possibility of a few tricky segments here and there, among easy sections and paved roads.

Ride Surfaces

Grade 1
55%
Grade 2
30%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
3%
Grade 5
2%

Bike Setup Recommendations

Recommended Tires

700×34

A minimum 700×34, but feel free to use more rubber for more comfort and grip if your bike has extra tire clearance.

Recommended Gearing

38T × 11-42

We recommend a minimum gear ratio of 0.90 using a 38T chainring × 42 rear cog (or equivalent). Check your gear ratios at www.bikecalc.com/gear_ratios.


Gravel Explained

Read below for a brief description of our gravel definitions. We have classed the surfaces into five categories, from tarmac to boulders, to give an indication of the amount and level of rough stuff on each trip.

Click below to see Cycling Tips’ great explainer video on gravel surfaces.
GRADE 1
Bad roads, cobbles and rough paved surfaces. You’d find this rideable on a standard road bike.
GRADE 2
Well-made, hard-packed dirt roads offering a road-like experience but without the traffic. Some rutting and looseness of stones.
GRADE 3
Reasonably smooth gravel. Discernible small rocks over a hard-packed surface.
GRADE 4
Rough gravel with conditions that may include shale, larger gravel and rocks. Tubeless tyres and big clearance are the most practical choice.
GRADE 5
Borderline MTB terrain, at the rougher end of the spectrum for the capabilities of most gravel bikes.

star star star star star
Gravel Tuscany with BWR
An absolutely stunning experience with the most amazing staff. Everyone was so patient and knowledgeable and were true ambassadors to the sport of cycling. I ...

Kendall Tengelsen & Zack Mitchell, USA — 2022

star star star star star
Gravel Tuscany with BWR
it was well planned and exceedingly well executed. The Thomson team was dedicated and fun!

Michael Baumgaertner, USA — 2022

star star star star
Gravel Tuscany with BWR
This trip met my gravel expectations: routes were challenging on road, gravel and forest dirt. Daily ride tempo was energetic. Leaders were helpful and superb ...

Larry Kaufman, USA — 2022

See more reviews
Cycling helmet, sunglasses and shoes illustration

Itinerary

Day Description Distance Elevation Hotel
01 Benvenuti in Toscana Hotel Borgo San Luigi
02 The hill-top town of San Gimignano Hotel Borgo San Luigi
03 Into the heart of the Chianti region Relais Vignale & Spa
04 In the tire tracks of L'Eroica Relais Vignale & Spa
05 The Chianti wine region Relais Vignale & Spa
06 Eroica + Strade Bianche Four Points Siena
07 Ciao!
Daily Averages
Itinerary View Itinerary View
Map View Map View
01
02
03
04
05
06
07

Itinerary Detail

Day 1

Distance

Elevation


Benvenuti in Toscana

Your trip starts at Florence Airport where our staff will meet you before the transfer to your hotel in Borgo Luigi, close to the beautiful Colle Val d’Elsa

After a brief orientation meeting, bike build-up and lunch we’ll head out for a short warm-up ride in the hills around.

Day 2

Distance

Elevation


The hill-top town of San Gimignano

Embarking on our Tuscany adventure today, we’re set for a magnificent ride to the medieval gem, San Gimignano. Our journey takes us deep into the heart of Tuscany, weaving through the rolling Vernaccia vineyards that embrace the iconic medieval towers.

Day 3

Distance

Elevation


Into the heart of the Chianti region

Leaving Borgo Luigi, our journey unfolds on a wonderful gravel section, revealing the mesmerizing beauty of Tuscan landscapes. The wheels spin through the renowned Chianti vineyards, each gravel stretch leading us to the charming town of Radda in Chianti. Here, a pause for a delightful gelato awaits, a sweet reward for the adventure. But this ride isn’t just about paths and towns; it’s a venture into the heart of the famed L’Eroica course, a cycling legacy etched in history.

Day 4

Distance

Elevation


In the tire tracks of L'Eroica

Setting out from Radda in Chianti, today’s stage weaves through the scenic beauty of cypresses, olive trees, and vineyards. Passing through the historic Gaiole in Chianti, birthplace of the Eroica race, we head south to the majestic Castello di Brolio. Midway, a turn north brings us back to Radda, where a well-deserved gelato and the comforts of our Spa hotel await.

Day 5

Distance

Elevation


The Chianti wine region

Get ready for  a captivating journey today, departing from Radda in Chianti for a scenic, hilly ride up north into the renowned Chianti region. Explore the charm of historic towns like Greve in Chianti, famous for its wines and breathtaking views. This cycling adventure is not just a ride; it’s an immersive experience in the heart of Tuscany’s beauty. Join us as we navigate the undulating terrain, discovering the allure of vineyards and capturing the essence of Chianti.

Day 6

Distance

Elevation


Eroica + Strade Bianche

Gear up for an unforgettable Grand Finale! We’ll be riding the best sections of the classic Eroica event, seamlessly blended with iconic stretches of the Strada bianche, including the famed Monte Sant Marie ride near Asciano – a route celebrated by the Fabian Cancellara monument. Our epic journey concludes at the Four Points hotel in Siena, adding the perfect finishing touch to an incredible week exploring the finest terrain Tuscany has to offer. Grazie for an amazing adventure!

Day 7

Distance

Elevation


Ciao!

Unfortunately, your trip across Tuscany has come to an end.

Our shuttle will drop you off at Florence Airport.

Map & Profile

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
40%
Grade 2
30%
Grade 3
20%
Grade 4
5%
Grade 5
5%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
20%
Grade 3
15%
Grade 4
10%
Grade 5
5%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
30%
Grade 3
20%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
40%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
40%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
40%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
0%
Grade 2
0%
Grade 3
0%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Surface Details

Day 01
Day 02
Day 03
Day 04
Day 05
Day 06

Dates & Prices Illustration

Dates & Prices



Date Booking Status Availability Price / Per Person Single Supplement Non-rider Discount
2024
May 5 - 11
Taking Bookings
Places Available
USD $3,895
USD $700
USD $730
Book this trip
Oct 6 - 12
Taking Bookings
Places Available
USD $3,895
USD $700
USD $730
Book this trip
Close

Waiting List


Sign up to the waiting list for this departure, to be notified if a space becomes available. Please fill out the information below:



    Trip Hotels

    Hotel Borgo San Luigi

    Relais Vignale & Spa

    Four Points Siena


    What's Included

    What's Included What's Not Included
      Accommodations & Meals arrow
    • 7 days / 6 nights fully accompanied trip
    • All accommodations
    • All breakfasts
    • All dinners
    • Lunch on the 1st day
    • Transportation arrow
    • Pick-up and Drop-Off at Florence Airport
    • All transportation during the trip
    • All luggage & bike box transfers
    • Cycling Support arrow
    • 1 x Ride Leader per 8 guests (approx.)
    • 1 x Support Van & 4WD vehicle
    • Experienced bike mechanic
    • Park Tools Toolkit
    • Daily ride gpx files provided
    • Nutrition during the ride arrow
    • Energy bars, gels and sports drink
    • Variety of snacks and local specialties
    • Bottled water
    • Airfare
    • Travel and personal insurance
    • Additional hotel expenses i.e. phone charges, mini-bar, gratuities
    • Staff gratuities
    What's Included
      Accommodations & Meals arrow
    • 7 days / 6 nights fully accompanied trip
    • All accommodations
    • All breakfasts
    • All dinners
    • Lunch on the 1st day
    • Transportation arrow
    • Pick-up and Drop-Off at Florence Airport
    • All transportation during the trip
    • All luggage & bike box transfers
    • Cycling Support arrow
    • 1 x Ride Leader per 8 guests (approx.)
    • 1 x Support Van & 4WD vehicle
    • Experienced bike mechanic
    • Park Tools Toolkit
    • Daily ride gpx files provided
    • Nutrition during the ride arrow
    • Energy bars, gels and sports drink
    • Variety of snacks and local specialties
    • Bottled water
    What's Not Included
    • Airfare
    • Travel and personal insurance
    • Additional hotel expenses i.e. phone charges, mini-bar, gratuities
    • Staff gratuities

    Travel details - airport departures

    Pick-up/Drop-off Info

    Arrival

    Pickup Location Time

    Florence Airport

    9:00am

    OR

    Hotel Palazzo Castri 1874

    View website arrow

    9:00am

    Departure

    Drop Off Location Time

    Florence Airport

    9:00am


    Rental Bikes

    3T Exploro Boost e-bike

    Frame

    3T Exploro Ultra Boost Carbon

    Groupset

    Sram Rival AXS XPLR Electronic

    Weight

    12.8kg

    Wheels

    Rodi alloy 700c

    Chainrings

    40

    Cassette

    12-speed 10-44t

    Sizes

    XXS, 51, 54, 56, 58, 61

    USD $750

    View Details

    Specialized Diverge Expert Carbon

    Frame

    Specialized Diverge FACT 9r carbon

    Groupset

    SRAM Eagle

    Weight

    Under 1kg (size 56)

    Wheels

    Roval Terra C

    Chainrings

    40T

    Cassette

    11-50t (12-speed)

    Sizes

    49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61

    USD $550

    View Details


    Gravel Tuscany with BWR

    Tuscany beyond tarmac, inspired by the Eroica and Strade Bianche courses, the perfect mix.


    Similar trips